Context-sensitive help for display device associated with power driven wheelchair

ABSTRACT

An apparatus and method for providing help information on a display device associated with a power driven wheelchair is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) displaying screen content displayed on the display device during operation or support of the power driven wheelchair, b) detecting selective activation of a first input device, c) in response to detection of the first input device activation, selecting help information content from a collection of help information, the selected help information content being contextually related to the screen content displayed on the display device, and d) displaying the contextually-related help information content on the display device. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes: a display device, a first input device, and a microcontroller in operative communication with the display device and the first input device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of seven U.S. provisional patentapplications, including Ser. No. 60/712,987, filed Aug. 31, 2005, Ser.No. 60/727,005, filed Oct. 15, 2005, Ser. No. 60/726,983, filed Oct. 15,2005, Ser. No. 60/726,666, filed Oct. 15, 2005, Ser. No. 60/726,981,filed Oct. 15, 2005, Ser. No. 60/727,249, filed Oct. 15, 2005, and Ser.No. 60/727,250, filed Oct. 15, 2005. This application is also related toseven co-pending U.S. utility patent applications filed the same day asthis application, including Ser. No. 60/727,005 entitled “ModeProgrammable Actuator Controller for Power Positioning Seat or LegSupport of a Wheelchair,” Ser. 60/726,983 entitled “Method and Apparatusfor Setting or Modifying Programmable Parameter in Power DrivenWheelchair,” Ser. No. 60/726,981 entitled “Method and Apparatus forProgramming Parameters of a Power Driven Wheelchair for a Plurality ofDrive Settings,” Ser. No. 60/727,249 entitled “Method and Apparatus forAutomated Positioning of User Support Surfaces in Power DrivenWheelchair,” Ser. No. 60/727,250 entitled “Power Driven Wheelchair,” andapplication Ser. No. 11/513,750 entitled “Method and Apparatus forImproved Support of Power Driven Wheelchair.” The contents of allabove-identified patent application(s) and patent(s) are fullyincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Power driven wheelchairs generally include right and left drive wheelsdriven by a motor controller via corresponding right and left drivemotors. A power driven wheelchair may also include actuators, motors, orother devices to control user support surfaces, such as seats, backs,leg rests, foot rests, or head rests. These various actuators, motors,and other devices may be controlled via a user interface. The userinterface may include input devices, such as a joystick, pushbuttons andother types of switches, potentiometers and other types of controldevices, and output devices, such as a graphic display, alphanumericdisplay, or indicators. Input devices for special needs users, such as aproportional head control, a sip n' puff system, a fiber optic trayarray, a proximity head array, or a proximity switch array, may also beprovided as a user interface or as a remote input to the user interface.

Examples of power driven wheelchairs are provided in a product brochureentitled “Invacare® Storm® Series TDX™ Power Wheelchairs, includingFormula™ Powered Seating,” Form No. 03-018, 2004 from InvacareCorporation of Elyria, Ohio, the contents of which are fullyincorporated herein by reference. Additional examples of power drivenwheelchairs are provided in another product brochure entitled “Invacare®Tarsys® Series Powered Seating System,” Form No. 00-313, 2002 fromInvacare Corporation, the contents of which are fully incorporatedherein by reference.

Currently, a separate remote programmer unit may be used to set ormodify programmable parameters associated with operation of a givenpower driven wheelchair. Examples of remote programmers and their use inconjunction with a power driven wheelchair are provided in U.S. Pat. No.6,871,122 to Wakefield, II and U.S. Pat. No. 6,819,981 to Wakefield, IIet al., both assigned to Invacare Corporation. The contents of both ofthese patents are fully incorporated herein by reference.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, an apparatus associated with a power driven wheelchair isprovided. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes: a display device toselectively display screen content during operation or support of thepower driven wheelchair, a first input device for selective activation,and a microcontroller in operative communication with the display deviceand the first input device. In this embodiment, the microcontrollercontrols the content displayed on the display device during theoperation or support and detects activation of the first input device.Additionally, in response to detection of the first input deviceactivation, the microcontroller selects help information content from acollection of help information, the selected help information contentbeing contextually related to the screen content displayed on thedisplay device. The microcontroller also controls display of thecontextually-related help information content on the display device.

In another aspect, a method for providing help information on a displaydevice associated with a power driven wheelchair is provided. In oneembodiment, the method includes: a) displaying content on the displaydevice during operation or support of the power driven wheelchair, b)detecting selective activation of a first input device, c) in responseto detection of the first input device activation, selecting helpinformation content from a collection of help information, the selectedhelp information content being contextually related to the contentdisplayed on the display device, and d) displaying thecontextually-related help information content on the display device.

In another embodiment, the method includes: a) displaying content on thedisplay device during operation or support of the power drivenwheelchair, the content during at least a portion of the operation orsupport including one or more screen objects, b) detecting activation ofa screen navigation control, c) in response to detection of the screennavigation control activation, designating a first screen object fromthe one or more screen objects as active within the content, d)detecting selective activation of a help switch, e) in response todetection of the help switch activation, selecting help informationcontent from a collection of help information, the selected helpinformation content being contextually related to the first screenobject within the content displayed on the display device, and f)displaying the contextually-related help information content on thedisplay device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood with regard to the accompanyingdrawings, following description, and appended claims.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a power driven wheelchair.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a power drivenwheelchair.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a systemcontroller for a power driven wheelchair.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a programmerused in conjunction with related embodiments of power drivenwheelchairs.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an on-boardstorage device associated with a system controller or a programmer.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portablestorage medium associated with a system controller or a programmer.

FIGS. 7 through 10 are perspective views of exemplary embodiments of asystem controller for a power driven wheelchair.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a programmerused in conjunction with related embodiments of power drivenwheelchairs.

FIGS. 12 through 18 are examples of normal screen content and helpinformation content where the help information is context-sensitive withrespect to at least a portion of the normal screen content.

FIG. 19 is an exemplary menu hierarchy for a programming mode associatedwith operation or support of a power driven wheelchair.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart of an exemplary info monitor process associatedwith providing context-sensitive help on a display device associatedwith operation or support of a power driven wheelchair.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart of an exemplary menu navigation sub-processassociated with interactive use of a display device and a screennavigation control in conjunction with operation or support of a powerdriven wheelchair.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart of an exemplary set/modify parameter handlersub-process associated with interactive use of a display device andscreen navigation control in conjunction with operation or support of apower driven wheelchair.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart of an exemplary process for providing helpinformation on a display device associated with a power drivenwheelchair.

FIG. 24 is a flow chart of another exemplary process for providing helpinformation on a display device associated with a power drivenwheelchair.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus for providing helpinformation on a display device associated with a power drivenwheelchair.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following paragraphs include definitions of exemplary terms usedwithin this disclosure. Except where noted otherwise, variants of allterms, including singular forms, plural forms, and other affixed forms,fall within each exemplary term meaning. Except where noted otherwise,capitalized and non-capitalized forms of all terms fall within eachmeaning.

“Circuit,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, hardware,firmware, software or combinations of each to perform a function(s) oran action(s). For example, based on a desired feature or need, a circuitmay include a software controlled microprocessor, discrete logic such asan application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other programmedlogic device. A circuit may also be fully embodied as software. As usedherein, “circuit” is considered synonymous with “logic.”

“Comprising,” “containing,” “having,” and “including,” as used herein,except where noted otherwise, are synonymous and open-ended. In otherwords, usage of any of these terms (or variants thereof) does notexclude one or more additional elements or method steps from being addedin combination with one or more enumerated elements or method steps.

“Context-sensitive help,” as used herein includes, but is not limitedto, a form of assistance in a system with a display in which a programthat controls the display provides on-screen information to the userconcerning the current command or operation being attempted, a type ofassistance built into software that displays information related to theparticular function in use, or a software feature that providesinformation related to the specific program, command or dialog box thatis open or currently displayed. For example, if the content of a displayscreen includes one or more screen objects, information about an activeor currently selected screen object is provided when context-sensitivehelp is requested.

“Controller,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, anycircuit or device that coordinates and controls the operation of one ormore input or output devices. For example, a controller can include adevice having one or more processors, microprocessors, or centralprocessing units (CPUs) capable of being programmed to perform input oroutput functions.

“Logic,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, hardware,firmware, software or combinations of each to perform a function(s) oran action(s), or to cause a function or action from another component.For example, based on a desired application or need, logic may include asoftware controlled microprocessor, discrete logic such as anapplication specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other programmedlogic device. Logic may also be fully embodied as software. As usedherein, “logic” is considered synonymous with “circuit.”

“Operative communication,” as used herein includes, but is not limitedto, a communicative relationship between devices, logic, or circuits,including mechanical and pneumatic relationships. Direct electrical,electromagnetic, and optical connections and indirect electrical,electromagnetic, and optical connections are examples of suchcommunications. Linkages, gears, chains, push rods, cams, keys,attaching hardware, and other components facilitating mechanicalconnections are also examples of such communications. Pneumatic devicesand interconnecting pneumatic tubing may also contribute to operativecommunications. Two devices are in operative communication if an actionfrom one causes an effect in the other, regardless of whether the actionis modified by some other device. For example, two devices separated byone or more of the following: i) amplifiers, ii) filters, iii)transformers, iv) optical isolators, v) digital or analog buffers, vi)analog integrators, vii) other electronic circuitry, viii) fiber optictransceivers, ix) Bluetooth communications links, x) 802.11communications links, xi) satellite communication links, and xii) otherwireless communication links. As another example, an electromagneticsensor is in operative communication with a signal if it receiveselectromagnetic radiation from the signal. As a final example, twodevices not directly connected to each other, but both capable ofinterfacing with a third device, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU),are in operative communication.

“Or,” as used herein, except where noted otherwise, is inclusive, ratherthan exclusive. In other words, “or” is used to describe a list ofalternative things in which one may choose one option or any combinationof alternative options. For example, “A or B” means “A or B or both” and“A, B, or C” means “A, B, or C, in any combination.” If “or” is used toindicate an exclusive choice of alternatives or if there is anylimitation on combinations of alternatives, the list of alternativesspecifically indicates that choices are exclusive or that certaincombinations are not included. For example, “A or B, but not both” isused to indicate use of an exclusive “or” condition. Similarly, “A, B,or C, but no combinations” and “A, B, or C, but not the combination ofA, B, and C” are examples where certain combination of alternatives arenot included in the choices associated with the list.

“Processor,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, one or moreof virtually any number of processor systems or stand-alone processors,such as microprocessors, microcontrollers, central processing units(CPUs), and digital signal processors (DSPs), in any combination. Theprocessor may be associated with various other circuits that supportoperation of the processor, such as random access memory (RAM),read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasableprogrammable read-only memory (EPROM), clocks, decoders, memorycontrollers, or interrupt controllers, etc. These support circuits maybe internal or external to the processor or its associated electronicpackaging. The support circuits are in operative communication with theprocessor. The support circuits are not necessarily shown separate fromthe processor in block diagrams or other drawings.

“Signal,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, one or moreelectrical signals, including analog or digital signals, one or morecomputer instructions, a bit or bit stream, or the like.

“Software,” as used herein includes, but is not limited to, one or morecomputer readable or executable instructions that cause a computer orother electronic device to perform functions, actions, or behave in adesired manner. The instructions may be embodied in various forms suchas routines, algorithms, modules or programs including separateapplications or code from dynamically linked libraries. Software mayalso be implemented in various forms such as a stand-alone program, afunction call, a servlet, an applet, instructions stored in a memory,part of an operating system or other type of executable instructions. Itwill be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the form ofsoftware is dependent on, for example, requirements of a desiredapplication, the environment it runs on, or the desires of adesigner/programmer or the like.

With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of a power drivenwheelchair 10 may include a system controller 12. The system controller12 may control operation or support of the power driven wheelchair 10.Other embodiments of power driven wheelchairs and other embodiments ofsystem controllers are available in various combinations.

With reference to FIG. 2, an exemplary embodiment of a power drivenwheelchair 30 is depicted in block diagram fashion. As shown, the powerdriven wheelchair 30 may include a system controller 32, a drivecontroller 34, a left drive motor 36, a right drive motor 38, and asuitable power source (e.g., battery) (not shown). The system controller32 may include a user interface and may control the drive controller 34in response to activation of one or more input devices associated withthe user interface and in response to software programs for one or moreoperating or support modes. The software programs may use a plurality ofprogrammable parameters arranged in sets associated with, for example,different environmental conditions to define driving responsecharacteristics. The drive controller 34 may control the left and rightdrive motors 36, 38 in response to commands from the system controller32. Communication between the system controller 32 and drive controller34 may be via serial or parallel bus connections or via discrete signalconnections. For example, a Shark serial communication bus, developed byDynamic Controls of New Zealand, may be used to communicate with thedrive controller 34. In another embodiment, the system controller 34 maycommunicate directly with a left drive motor and a right drive motor viaa serial communication bus, such as a controller area network (CAN) bus,where the left and right drive motors include a serial bus interface andlocal intelligence.

The power driven wheelchair 30 may also include various options, such aspowered seating, powered front rigging, and powered steering. In oneembodiment, the powered seating option may include a tilt actuator 40, arecline actuator 42, an elevation actuator 44, a horizontal actuator 46,and a ventilator tray actuator 48. In one embodiment, the powered frontrigging option may include a common leg rest actuator 50 and a commonfoot rest actuator 52. In another embodiment, the powered front riggingoption may include independent left and right leg rest actuators andindependent left and right foot rest actuators. In one embodiment, thepowered steering option may include one or more powered steeringactuators 54. These options may be added to the wheelchair in anycombination. Likewise, various combinations of actuators may be selectedfor each option. For example, a powered seating option may be limited totilt and recline actuators 40, 42, tilt and elevation actuators 40, 44,recline and elevation actuators 40, 46, or tilt, recline, and elevationactuators 40, 42, 44. If the power driven wheelchair has split left andright leg rests, individual right and left leg rest actuators may beprovided in lieu of the common leg rest actuator 50. Back and seat shearreduction, for example, may be provided by coordinated movement of therecline and horizontal actuators 42, 46. The system controller 32 maycontrol the actuators in response to activation of one or more inputdevices associated with the user interface and in response to softwareprograms for one or more operating or support modes. The softwareprograms may use a plurality of programmable parameters, for example, todefine desired positions for user support surfaces and actuator responsecharacteristics. Communication between the system controller 32 andactuators may be via serial or parallel bus connections or via discretesignal connections. For example, in one embodiment, actuators mayinclude sensors and local electronics which provides an interface to aCAN bus. It is understood that any actuator may include a variable speedreversible motor, a stepper motor, a linear motor, a servo motor, oranother suitable device associated with position control of an actuatormechanism. The actuator mechanism, for example, controlling the positionof user support surfaces, such as seat, back, leg rest, foot rest, orhead rest support surfaces, via a suitable linkage, drive train,coupling, or another type of mechanical interface.

In one embodiment, providing modularization of actuators, motors, andother output devices with sensors, detectors, or other devices providingfeedback for closed loop control of the corresponding output devicefacilitates the use of a serial or parallel bus architecture in thepower driven wheelchair 30. This also simplifies the addition or removalof optional output devices and streamlines upgrades and retrofits.Moreover, distributing intelligence, including interface circuits foroutput devices and associated feedback components, from the centralizedcontroller to the modular output devices further improves performancethrough parallel processing. In additional embodiments, distributingadditional intelligence, including closed-loop control algorithms, fromthe centralized controller to the modular output devices furtherimproves performance through additional parallel processing and reducedbus traffic.

One or more remote input devices 58 may also be provided as options inthe power driven wheelchair 30. For example, user interfaces for specialneeds users, such as a proportional head control, a sip n' puff system,a fiber optic tray array, a proximity head array, or a proximity switcharray, may be provided as a remote input to the system controller 32.Additional examples of remote input devices 58 include, a 4-way toggleswitch assembly, a quad pushbutton assembly, and a compact proportionaljoystick assembly. The 4-way toggle switch assembly or the quadpushbutton assembly, for example, may be used for controlling poweredseating systems. The compact proportional joystick assembly, forexample, may be used as a proportional attendant control. Communicationbetween the system controller 32 and the remote input device(s) 58 maybe via serial or parallel bus connections or via discrete signalconnections. For example, a remote input device may be connected to aserial port on the system controller 32. If the remote input deviceincludes the appropriate electronics and local intelligence (e.g.,processes for composing and de-composing bus messages), communicationswith the system controller 32 may, for example, be via a CAN bus oranother type of bus or network connection.

A programmer 60 may be used in conjunction with the power drivenwheelchair 30. The programmer 60 described herein may be an optionalaccessory or special tool for dealers or technicians. The programmer 60may be adapted for use on various models and configurations of powerdriven wheelchairs. Communication between the system controller 32 andthe programmer 60 may be via serial or parallel bus connections or viadiscrete signal connections. For example, the programmer 60 may beconnected to a serial port on the system controller 32. If theprogrammer 60 includes the appropriate electronics and localintelligence (e.g., processes for composing and de-composing busmessages), communications with the system controller 32 may, forexample, be via a CAN bus or another type of bus or network connection.The various aspects of FIG. 2 described above may be automated,semi-automated, or manual and may be implemented through hardware,software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

With reference to FIG. 3, a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment ofa system controller 32 may include a microcontroller 62, one or moreinput devices 64, a display 66, one or more indicators 68, an on-boardstorage device 70, a storage medium interface 72, an output deviceinterface 74, one or more remote input device interfaces 76, and aprogrammer interface 78. The microcontroller 62 may include a centralprocessing unit (CPU) 80, an on-chip storage device 82, and ananalog-to-digital (A/D) converter 84. The A/D converter 84 may providethe microcontroller 62 with an interface to receive analog inputsignals. In one embodiment, the microcontroller 62 may include anSAF-XC164CS 16-bit single-chip microcontroller by Infineon Technologiesof München, Germany.

The display 66, for example, may include a 128×64 pixel graphic displayor a 160×160 pixel graphic display. In additional embodiments, thedisplay may include a graphic display in a different size or a differentarrangement of pixels. Any type of graphic display may be used, such asa liquid crystal display (LCD). Additionally, an alphanumeric display oranother type of display may be used. The one or more indicators 68, forexample, may include light emitting diodes (LEDs), lamps, other types ofvisual indicators, or audible devices. The one or more input devices 64,for example, may include a proportional analog joystick, a threeposition toggle or rotary switch, a return-to-center momentary threeposition switch, a rotary potentiometer, and a plurality of momentarypushbuttons. In additional embodiments, the one or more input devices64, may include other types of joysticks, switches, potentiometers,pushbuttons, or other types of control devices.

The output device interface 74 may be connected, for example, to a motorcontroller, actuators, motors, or similar devices associated with thepower driven wheelchair. The output device interface 74 may include oneor more serial ports, one or more serial portion, or discrete wiringconnections in any combination. For example, the output device interface74 may include a CAN bus serial port and a Shark bus serial port. Theone or more remote input device interfaces 76 and programmer interface78 may each include a serial port, parallel port, or discrete wiringconnections.

The microcontroller 62 may receive input signals from the one or moreinput devices 64, remote input devices 58 (FIG. 2) connected to the oneor more remote input device interfaces 76, or a programmer 60 (FIG. 2)connected to the programmer interface 78. The microcontroller 62 maycontrol the display 66, the one or more indicators 68, and variousmotors, actuators, and other output devices connected to the outputdevice interface 74, at least in part, in response to the input signalsfrom the one or more input devices 64, remote input devices 58 (FIG. 2),or programmer 60 (FIG. 2).

The on-board storage device 70 and on-chip storage device 82 each mayinclude a volatile storage device, such as random access memory (RAM),and a non-volatile storage device, such as non-volatile memory, a fixeddisk device, a removable disc device, an optical storage device, etc.Non-volatile memory, for example, may include read-only memory (ROM),programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-onlymemory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory(EEPROM), or flash memory. For example, software programs, one or moreprogrammable parameter sets, and help information may be stored in oneor more non-volatile memory storage devices associated with the on-boardstorage device 70 or on-chip storage device 82. Each programmableparameter set may include a plurality of programmable operatingparameters for the power driven wheelchair 20. The microcontroller 62may run the software programs and may control the display 66, indicators68, and various motors, actuators, and other output devices connected tothe output device interface 74 based, at least in part, on one or moreof the programmable operating parameters.

A portable storage medium 86 may be used in conjunction with the systemcontroller 32. The portable storage medium 86 may include a plurality ofstorage locations which may store a security key, one or more libraryparameter sets, and a collection of help information The portablestorage medium 86 described herein may be an optional accessory orspecial tool for dealers or technicians. In some cases, the portablestorage medium 86 may also be used in conjunction with normal operationof the power driven wheelchair by its owner or end user. The portablestorage medium 86 described herein may be suitable for use on variousmodels and configurations of power driven wheelchairs. However, inanother scheme for protection and security of the information storedtherein, a given portable storage medium 86 may be serialized orotherwise tailored and keyed to an individual system controller 32 andcorresponding power driven wheelchair. Communication between themicrocontroller 62 and the portable storage medium 86 may be via thestorage medium interface 72.

The portable storage medium 86 may include a non-volatile storagemedium, such as non-volatile memory. In one embodiment, the portablestorage medium 86 may include, for example, a type of removable storagemedium known as a removable memory card. For example, the portablestorage medium 86 may include a secure digital (SD) card. In theembodiment being described, the storage medium interface 72 may include,for example, a corresponding removable memory interface (e.g., an SDcard reader) to communicate and exchange information with themicrocontroller 62.

In additional embodiments, the portable storage medium may include othertypes of removable memory, such as a compact flash (CF) card, a flashmemory pen drive, a memory stick, a microdrive, a multimedia memory card(MMC), a smart media (SM) card, an xD picture card, a subscriberidentity module (SIM) card, a memory chip (e.g., ROM, PROM, EPROM,EEPROM), or another suitable form of removable, separable, or detachablememory. In other additional embodiments, the portable storage medium mayinclude other forms of removable storage medium, such as optical discs(e.g., compact discs (CDs), digital video discs (DVDs)) or floppy disks(e.g., zip disks).

In still further embodiments, the portable storage medium may include aportable storage device, such as an external memory card reader, anexternal optical disc drive, an external floppy disk drive, a portablecomputer (e.g., laptops, notebooks, personal digital assistants (PDAs)),a mobile telephone (e.g., cellular telephone, personal communicationsystem, satellite telephone), a digital camera, an MP3 player, or anytype of portable storage device capable of wired or wirelesscommunication with another compatible communication device.

The storage medium interface 72, for example, may include a connector orsocket that mates with the portable storage medium 86 and an electroniccircuit that supports communication between the microcontroller 62 andthe portable storage medium 86. For example, the storage mediuminterface 72 may include a memory card reader, a memory chip socket, anoptical disc drive, a floppy disk drive, a serial port (e.g., universalserial bus (USB) port, RS-232), a parallel port (e.g., small computersystem interface (SCSI) port), a modem, an Ethernet port, a wirelessEthernet transceiver (e.g., IEEE 802.11b), a Bluetooth transceiver, aninfrared (IR) transceiver, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, a mobiletelephone interface, a cable television interface, a satellitetelevision interface, or any communication device capable of wired orwireless communication with a corresponding portable storage medium. Thevarious aspects of FIG. 3 described above may be automated,semi-automated, or manual and may be implemented through hardware,software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

With reference to FIG. 4, an exemplary embodiment of a programmer 60 mayinclude a microcontroller 88, one or more input devices 90, a display92, one or more indicators 94, an on-board storage device 96, a storagemedium interface 98, and a controller interface 100. The microcontroller88 may include a CPU 102 and an on-chip storage device 104. In oneembodiment, the microcontroller 88 may include an SAF-XC164CS 16-bitsingle-chip microcontroller by Infineon Technologies of München,Germany.

The display 92, for example, may include a 160×160 pixel graphicdisplay. In additional embodiments, the display may include a graphicdisplay in a different size or a different arrangement of pixels. Anytype of graphic display may be used, such as an LCD. Additionally, analphanumeric display or another type of display may be used. The one ormore indicators 94, for example, may include LEDs, lamps, other types ofvisual indicators, or audible devices. The one or more input devices 90,for example, may include a plurality of momentary pushbuttons. Inadditional embodiments, the one or more input devices 90, may includeother types of pushbuttons or other types of control devices.

The controller interface 100 may include a serial port, parallel port,or discrete wiring connections for interfacing with a system controller32 (FIG. 2) of a power driven wheelchair. The microcontroller 88 mayreceive input signals from the one or more input devices 90 and thesystem controller 32 (FIG. 2) connected to the controller interface 100.The microcontroller 88 may latch or store activations of the one or moreinput devices 90 or other input signals over time. The microcontroller88 may control the display 92 and the one or more indicators 94, atleast in part, in response to the input signals from the one or moreinput devices or the system controller 32 (FIG. 2).

The microcontroller 88 may periodically (e.g., every 10 ms) receive astatus check message from the system controller 32 (FIG. 2) via thecontroller interface 100. For example, if an activation of the one ormore input devices 90 has occurred since the last status check, themicrocontroller 88 may send a response to the status check message viathe controller interface 100 that may include information regarding thelatched or stored activations from the one or more input devices 90.Once the response is sent, certain latched or stored activations may becleared. If no activations occurred since the last status check, themicrocontroller 88 may send a response to the status check messageindicating there is no new data to send. The microcontroller 88, forexample, may also receive messages from system controller 32 (FIG. 2)via the controller interface 100 containing information to be displayedon the display 92 or commands regarding control of the display 92.

The on-board storage device 96 and on-chip storage device 104 each mayinclude a volatile storage device, such as RAM, and a non-volatilestorage device, such as non-volatile memory, a fixed disk device, aremovable disc device, an optical storage device, etc. Non-volatilememory, for example, may include ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or flashmemory. For example, software programs, a plurality of programmableparameter sets, and help information may be stored in one or morenon-volatile memory storage devices associated with the on-board storagedevice 96 or on-chip storage device 104. The microcontroller 88 may runthe software programs and may control the display 92 and indicators 94based, at least in part, on one or more of the programmable operatingparameters.

A portable storage medium 106 may be used in conjunction with theprogrammer 60. Like the portable storage medium 86 (FIG. 3) associatedwith the system controller 32 (FIG. 3), the portable storage medium 106may also be an optional accessory or special tool for dealers ortechnicians. Therefore, the various characteristics, options, andalternatives described above for the portable storage medium 86 (FIG. 3)and storage medium interface 72 (FIG. 3) also apply to the portablestorage medium 106 and storage medium interface 98 in the programmer 60.The microcontroller 88 is in communication with the portable storagemedium 106 via the storage medium interface 98. This enables themicrocontroller 88 to retrieve data from the portable storage medium 106and provide it to the system controller 32 (FIG. 2) via the controllerinterface 100 or to save data received from the system controller 32(FIG. 2) to the portable storage medium 106.

In one embodiment, the portable storage medium 106 associated with theprogrammer 60 and the portable storage medium 86 (FIG. 3) associatedwith the system controller 32 (FIG. 2) may be interchangeable. In otherwords, the portable storage medium 106 may be used in conjunction withthe system controller 32 (FIG. 2) and vice versa. Moreover, thisinterchangeability may extend to other power driven wheelchairs. Inother words, the portable storage medium 86 or 106 associated with thepower driven wheelchair 10 (FIG. 1) may be used in system controllers orprogrammers associated with other power driven wheelchairs. Thisfacilitates development of a master copy of library parameter sets onone or more portable storage medium that can be transported to multiplepower driven wheelchairs for selective downloading of library parametersets. Additionally, programmable parameter sets can be selectivelyuploaded to the master copy to build or grow the library parameter setsfrom individual power driven wheelchairs. This is particularly usefulafter modifying a selected programmable parameter set on a first powerdriven wheelchair for a first user when a second user with a similarpower driven wheelchair and similar physical impairments is identified.The various aspects of FIG. 4 described above may be automated,semi-automated, or manual and may be implemented through hardware,software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

With reference to FIG. 5, an exemplary embodiment of on-board storagedevice 70, 96 may include a plurality of storage locations that maystore software programs 108, one or more programmable parameter sets110, or a collection of help information 112. In one embodiment, forexample, the on-board storage device 70, 96 may include fourprogrammable parameter sets 110. However, there may be more or lessprogrammable parameter sets in additional embodiments. Each programmableparameter set may include multiple programmable operating parameters.The programmable parameter sets may also be viewed as a plurality ofprogrammable operating parameters that may be arranged in sets accordingto, for example, different environmental conditions for the power drivenwheelchair (e.g., indoor, outdoor, etc.).

With reference to FIG. 6, an exemplary embodiment of portable storagemedium 86, 106 may include a plurality of storage locations that maystore a security key 114, one or more library parameter sets 116, or acollection of help information 118. In one embodiment, for example, theportable storage medium 86, 106 may include four or more libraryparameter sets 116. However, there may be more or less library parametersets in additional embodiments. Each library parameter set may includemultiple programmable operating parameters. The library parameter setsmay also be viewed as copies of programmable parameter sets ontransportable media that are ready for loading into an on-board storagedevice 70, 96 (FIG. 5) as corresponding programmable parameter sets.

With reference to FIG. 7, an exemplary embodiment of a system controller120 may include a power/drive select switch 122, an info switch 124, agraphic display 126, a joystick control 128, a speed control 130, and amounting hub 132. This configuration of the system controller 120 may bereferred to as a multi-purpose joystick (MPJ) model. The MPJ model mayalso include a removable memory card slot (not shown) for receiving aportable storage medium 86 (FIG. 3), such as a removable memory card.

The power/drive select switch 122, for example, may include a threeposition rotary switch. The “on” position, for example, is a centerposition where the power driven wheelchair is powered on. The “driveselect” position is a return-to-center position that advances throughthe available drives (i.e., programmable parameter sets). The “off”position of the power/drive select switch 122 is, for example, alatching position opposite the “drive select” position where the powerdriven wheelchair is powered down.

The info switch 124, for example, may include a momentary pushbuttonswitch. Activation of the info switch 124, for example, may cause thecontroller 120 to access and display help information. Certaininformation from help information file(s) may be provided on the graphicdisplay 126. The help information provided may be related to the contentof the display at or about the time the info switch 124 was activated.For example, information retrieved from help information file(s) may becontext-sensitive with respect to an active screen object, such as acurrent menu or icon selection, a current programmable parameterselection, a current drive selection, a current mode selection, or acurrent error message. This provides information about a specific itemas it is currently being used. The context-sensitive help informationmay: i) explain current selections for operation or support of the powerdriven wheelchair, ii) current settings for programmable parameters,iii) current selection(s) with respect to screen objects (i.e., activescreen object(s)) of the display, and iv) describe an expected resultfrom activation of the selected or active option. In additionalembodiments, retrieval of specific information from the help informationfile(s) may be menu-driven, topic-driven, or driven by another suitablemeans.

The graphic display 126, for example, may include a 128×64 pixeldisplay. A screen on the graphic display 126 may include about five orsix lines of text by about 32 characters, about two large icons (e.g.,64×64 pixels icons), about eight small icons (e.g., 32×32 pixel icons),or various combinations thereof. Of course, larger or smaller icons mayalso be used in various combinations.

The joystick control 128, for example, may include a proportional analogjoystick. The joystick control 128, for example, may be used fordirectional control for menu or icon navigation, setting or modifying aprogrammable parameter, saving a selected programmable parameter value,directional control for driving the power driven wheelchair, positionalcontrol of a selected user support surface, and other selection-typefunctions when directional or positional control is not required. Thejoystick control 128 is an example of a screen navigation control. Thespeed control 130, for example, may include a rotary potentiometer.Turning the speed control 130 between counter-clockwise and clockwiselimits adjusts the maximum speed of the power driven wheelchair inrelation to operation using the joystick control 128. The mounting hub132, for example, may be inserted in a mating receptacle on the powerdriven wheelchair to mount the system controller 32.

With reference to FIG. 8, another exemplary embodiment of a systemcontroller 140 may include an info switch 124, a graphic display 126, ajoystick control 128, a speed control 130, a mounting hub 132, apower/drive select switch 142, and a removable memory card slot 144.This system controller 140 may be referred to as a personalized switchrear-mount (PSR) joystick model or simply a PSR model. Generally, thecomponents of the PSR model have the same functional characteristics asthe components described above for the MPJ model (FIG. 7). The PSR modelprovides an alternate construction of a system controller.

With reference to FIG. 9, still another exemplary embodiment of a systemcontroller 150 may include an info switch 124, a graphic display 126, ajoystick control 128, a speed control 130, and a power/drive selectswitch 142. This system controller 150 may be referred to as apersonalized switch front-mount (PSF) joystick model or simply a PSFmodel. A mounting hub (not shown) may also be provided on the PSF modelfor mounting the system controller 146. The PSF model may also include aremovable memory card slot (not shown) for receiving a portable storagemedium 86 (FIG. 3), such as a removable memory card. Generally, thecomponents of the PSF model have the same functional characteristics asthe components described above for the MPJ model (FIG. 7). The PSF modelprovides an alternate construction of a system controller.

With reference to FIG. 10, yet another exemplary embodiment of a systemcontroller 160 may include a removable memory card slot 144, an infoswitch 162, a power switch 164, a graphic display 166, an up directionswitch 168, a down direction switch 170, a menu/left direction switch172, a right direction switch 174, a select switch 176, and a saveswitch 178. This system controller 160 may be referred to as a DISPLAYmodel. The DISPLAY model may also include a mounting hub (not shown) formounting the system controller 160. Generally, the removable memory cardslot 144 has the same functional characteristics as described above forthe MPJ model (FIG. 7).

The info switch 162, for example, may include a momentary pushbuttonswitch. Activation of the info switch 162 may cause the controller 160to access and display help information. Certain information from helpinformation file(s) may be provided on the graphic display 166. The helpinformation provided may be related to the content of the display at orabout the time the info switch 162 was activated. For example,information retrieved from help information file(s) may becontext-sensitive with respect to an active screen object, such as acurrent menu or icon selection, a current programmable parameterselection, a current drive selection, a current mode selection, or acurrent error message. This provides information about a specific itemas it is currently being used. The context-sensitive help informationmay: i) explain current selections for operation or support of the powerdriven wheelchair, ii) current settings for programmable parameters,iii) current selection(s) with respect to screen objects (i.e., activescreen object(s)) of the display, and iv) describe an expected resultfrom activation of the selected option. In additional embodiments,retrieval of specific information from the help information file(s) maybe menu-driven, topic-driven, or driven by another suitable means.

The power switch 164, for example, may include a two position toggleswitch with on and off positions. When the power switch 164 is set tothe “on” position the power driven wheelchair is powered on. When thepower switch 164 is switched from the “on” position to the “off”position, for example, the power driven wheelchair may begin apredetermined shutdown sequence. The graphic display 166, for example,is a 160×160 pixel display. A screen on the graphic display 166 mayinclude about twelve lines of text by about 40 characters, about fourlarge icons (e.g., 64×64 pixels icons), about 25 small icons (e.g.,32×32 pixel icons), or various combinations thereof. Of course, largeror smaller icons may also be used in various combinations.

The up, down, menu/left, and right direction switches 168, 170, 172,174, for example, may include momentary pushbutton switches. The up,down, menu/left, and right direction switches 168, 170, 172, 174 may beused for directional control for menu or icon navigation, setting ormodifying a programmable parameter, positional control of a selecteduser support surface, and other selection-type functions whendirectional or positional control is not required. For certain displayscreens, activation of the menu/left direction switch 172 may cause thecontroller 160 to present the previous menu on the graphic display 166.The up, down, menu/left, and right direction switches 168, 170, 172,174, in any combination, are examples of a screen navigation control. Inanother embodiment, the up, down, menu/left, and right directionswitches 168, 170, 172, 174, for example, may also be used fordirectional control for certain power driven wheelchair drivingoperations.

The select switch 176, for example, may include a momentary pushbuttonswitch. The select switch 176 may be used for selection of menu items oricons. The save switch 178, for example, may include a momentarypushbutton switch. The save switch 178 may be used for saving adisplayed value of a selected programmable parameter as the currentvalue for the parameter. The mode select, drive select, and speedcontrol functions described above for the MPJ model (FIG. 7), forexample, may be implemented through the graphic display 166,navigational control using the up, down, menu/left, and right directionswitches 168, 170, 172, 174, and activation of the select or saveswitches 176, 178.

With reference to FIG. 11, an exemplary embodiment of a programmer 180may include a removable memory card slot 144, a graphic display 166, anup direction switch 168, a down direction switch 170, a menu/leftdirection switch 172, a right direction switch 174, a select switch 176,a save switch 178, and a power/info switch 182. Generally, thecomponents of the programmer 180 have the same functionalcharacteristics as the components described above for the DISPLAY modelof the system controller 160 (FIG. 10). However, the programmer 180 maycombine the power and info functions in the power/info switch 182.Notably, the programmer 180 may not require the speed controlfunctionality of the DISPLAY model. The programmer 180 may also notrequire other functionality of the DISPLAY model in relation to drivingthe power driven wheelchair or positioning the user support surfaces.

The power/info switch 182, for example, may include a momentary switch.Pressing and holding the power/info switch 182 for at least apredetermined time (e.g., three seconds) may provide control of togglingpower on and power off functions. For example, if the programmer 180 ispowered off, pressing and holding the power/info switch 182 for at leastthe predetermined time may cause the programmer 180 to be powered on.Similarly, if the programmer 180 is powered on, pressing and holding thepower/info switch 182 for at least the predetermined time may cause theprogrammer 180 to begin a predetermined shutdown sequence. The infofunction may be provided by pressing and releasing the power/info switch182 within a predetermined time (e.g., two seconds). The characteristicsof the info function of the power/info switch 182 are otherwise the sameas those described above for the info switch 162 of the DISPLAY model(FIG. 10).

With reference to FIG. 12, an exemplary sequence 200 is provided withnormal screen content and help information content after a help switch(e.g., info switch 124 (FIG. 7)) activation when MAIN OPERATION screencontent 201 is displayed on a display device (e.g., display 126 (FIG.7)). The MAIN OPERATION screen content 201 may include multiple screenobjects, such as graphic and text objects. The graphic objects mayinclude a current drive indicator graphic object 202 (e.g., D1), a drivemode selection icon 203, an automatic positioning mode selection icon204 (e.g., AP), a 4-way switch positioning mode selection icon 205, anenvironmental control unit (ECU) mode selection icon 206 (e.g., ECU 1),a status indicator graphic object 207, and a battery level indicatorgraphic object 208. The text objects may include a current drive nametext object 209 (e.g., OUTDOOR) and a status message text object 210(e.g., TILT WARNING).

The drive mode selection icon 203, for example, may be active orselected by default when the MAIN OPERATION screen content 201 isdisplayed. As shown by the dotted lines above and below the icon in FIG.12, the drive mode selection icon 203 is active. In other embodiments,use of a pointer or any other suitable type of highlighting can be usedto indicate that a mode selection icon is active or selected. The modeselection icons can be navigated using, for example, toggle activationsassociated with a mode select control (not shown). The mode selectcontrol, for example, may include a momentary pushbutton switch.Navigation of the mode selection icons from left to right, for example,may be accomplished by successive toggle activations of the mode selectcontrol to advance to the next mode selection icon to the right. Forexample, when the ECU mode selection icon 206 is active, the next toggleactivation of the mode select control may result in selection of thedrive mode selection icon 203.

The power driven wheelchair may be driven when the drive mode selectionicon 203 is selected. The automatic positioning mode selection icon 204may be used to move one or more user support surfaces via an automaticpositioning sequence. One or more user support surfaces may be moved viaa 4-way switch control (e.g., joystick control 128 (FIG. 7, 128) up,down, menu/left, and right direction switches 168, 170, 172, 174 (FIG.10)) when the 4-way switch positioning mode selection icon 205 isactive. The ECU mode selection icon 206 may be use to control ECUoperation using a 4-way switch control (e.g., joystick control 128 (FIG.7) up, down, menu/left, and right direction switches 168, 170, 172, 174(FIG. 10).

With the MAIN OPERATION screen content 201 displayed, a help switchactivation, such as pressing the info switch (e.g., 124 (FIG. 7)) on thesystem controller (e.g., 120 (FIG. 7)), may cause context-sensitive helpinformation screen content 211 to be displayed on the display device(e.g., display 126 (FIG. 7)). As shown, the following narrative is anexample of what may be displayed: “A MAIN OPERATION screen is displayedwith drive, automatic positioning, 4-switch positioning, and ECU modeselection icons and wheelchair status information. The drive modeselection icon is currently active. Drive 1 (D1), named “OUTDOOR,” iscurrently selected. The battery level indicator indicates the status ofthe battery is fully charged. The wheelchair is experiencing a tiltwarning condition. Operation of the drive control will move thewheelchair. The mode select control may be used to select an alternatemode selection icon.” In additional embodiments, various portions of theexemplary context-sensitive help information may be provided in anycombination after the info activation. Of course, in other embodiments,the context-sensitive help information may be presented using differentwords or different context-sensitive help information may be presented.

With reference to FIG. 13, an exemplary sequence 212 is provided withnormal screen content and help information content after a help switchactivation when MAIN PROGRAMMING screen content 213 is displayed on adisplay device. The MAIN PROGRAMMING screen content 213 may includemultiple screen objects, such text objects providing status informationand menu selections. More specifically, the text objects providingstatus information may include a current mode text object 214 (e.g.,PROGRAMMING), a current drive number text object 215 (e.g., DRIVE 1), acurrent drive name text object 216 (e.g., OUTDOOR), and current valuetext objects for speed and response parameters 217, 218 (e.g., 90%, 90%)associated with the current drive. The text objects providing menuselections may include a SPEED text object 219, a RESPONSE text object220, and an ADVANCED MENU text object 221.

The ADVANCED MENU text object 221, for example, may be active orselected by default when the MAIN PROGRAMMING screen content 213 isdisplayed. As shown by the bold text, the ADVANCED MENU text object 221is active. In other embodiments, use of a pointer or any other suitabletype of highlighting can be used to indicate that a menu selection isactive or selected. The menu selections can be navigated using, forexample, up or down activations associated with a screen navigation.Navigation of the menu selections using the screen navigation control,for example, may be accomplished by moving the joystick forward for anup activation or backward for a down activation. The menu selectionabove the active menu selection may be selected with a forward movementof the joystick. For example, when the ADVANCED MENU text object 221 isactive, a forward joystick movement may result in selection of theRESPONSE text object 220.

With the MAIN PROGRAMMING screen content 213 displayed, a help switchactivation may cause context-sensitive help information screen content222 to be displayed on the display device. As shown, the followingnarrative is an example of what may be displayed: “A MAIN PROGRAMMINGscreen is displayed with menu selections for SPEED parameter, RESPONSEparameter, and ADVANCED MENU and wheelchair status information. DRIVE 1,named “OUTDOOR,” is currently selected. The ADVANCED MENU item iscurrently active. A “select” activation will cause an ADVANCED MENUscreen to be displayed. The screen navigation control may be used tomove to an alternate menu item.”

With reference to FIG. 14, an exemplary sequence 223 is provided withnormal screen content and help information content after a help switchactivation when ADVANCED MENU screen content 224 is displayed on adisplay device. The ADVANCED MENU screen content 224 may includemultiple text objects providing status information and menu selections.More specifically, the text objects providing status information mayinclude a current mode text object 225 and current menu text object 226(e.g., ADVANCED MENU). The text objects providing menu selections mayinclude a PERFORMANCE ADJUST text object 227, a STANDARD PROGRAMS textobject 228, and additional selections related to support tasksassociated with the programming mode.

The PERFORMANCE ADJUST text object 227, for example, may be active orselected by default when the ADVANCED MENU screen content 224 isdisplayed. As shown by the bold text, the PERFORMANCE ADJUST text object227 is active. In other embodiments, use of a pointer or any othersuitable type of highlighting can be used to indicate that a menuselection is active or selected. The menu selections can be navigated inthe same manner as described above for FIG. 13.

With the ADVANCED MENU screen content 224 displayed, a help switchactivation may cause context-sensitive help information screen content229 to be displayed on the display device. As shown, the followingnarrative is an example of what may be displayed: “An ADVANCED MENUscreen is displayed with menu selections for PERFORMANCE ADJUST,STANDARD PROGRAMS, MEMORY CARD, POWERED SEATING, CALIBRATIONS, andDIAGNOSTICS and wheelchair status information. The PERFORMANCE ADJUSTitem is currently active. A “select” activation will cause a DRIVESELECT screen to be displayed. The screen navigation control may be usedto move to an alternate menu item.”

With reference to FIG. 15, an exemplary sequence 230 is provided withnormal screen content and help information content after a help switchactivation when DRIVE SELECT screen content 231 is displayed on adisplay device. The DRIVE SELECT screen content 231 may include multipletext objects providing status information and menu selections. Morespecifically, the text objects providing status information may includea current mode text object 232 and current menu text object 233 (e.g.,DRIVE SELECT). The text objects providing menu selections may include aDRIVE 1 text object 234, a DRIVE 2 text object 235, and additionalselections related to support tasks associated with the programmingmode.

The DRIVE 1 text object 234, for example, may be active or selected bydefault when the DRIVE SELECT screen content 231 is displayed. As shownby the bold text, the DRIVE 1 text object 234 is active. In otherembodiments, use of a pointer or any other suitable type of highlightingcan be used to indicate that a menu selection is active or selected. Themenu selections can be navigated in the same manner as described abovefor FIG. 13.

With the DRIVE SELECT screen content 231 displayed, a help switchactivation may cause context-sensitive help information screen content236 to be displayed on the display device. As shown, the followingnarrative is an example of what may be displayed: “A DRIVE SELECT screenis displayed with wheelchair status information and menu selections forDRIVE 1, DRIVE 2, DRIVE 3, and DRIVE 4. The DRIVE 1 item is currentlyactive. A “select” activation will cause a PARAMETER SELECT screen to bedisplayed with parameters associated with DRIVE 1. The screen navigationcontrol may be used to move to an alternate menu item.”

With reference to FIG. 16, an exemplary sequence 237 is provided withnormal screen content and help information content after a help switchactivation when PARAMETER SELECT screen content 238 is displayed on adisplay device. The PARAMETER SELECT screen content 238 may includemultiple text objects providing status information and menu selections.More specifically, the text objects providing status information mayinclude a current mode text object 239, current menu text object 240(e.g., PARAMETER SELECT), current drive number text object 241 (e.g.,D1), and current parameter values for each programmable (i.e.,adjustable) parameter. The text objects providing menu selections mayinclude a FORWARD SPEED text object 242, a FWD ACCELERATION text object243, and additional selections associated with other programmable driveparameters.

The FORWARD SPEED text object 242, for example, may be active orselected by default when the PARAMETER SELECT screen content 238 isdisplayed. As shown by the bold text, the FORWARD SPEED text object 242is active. In other embodiments, use of a pointer or any other suitabletype of highlighting can be used to indicate that a menu selection isactive or selected. The menu selections can be navigated in the samemanner as described above for FIG. 13.

With the PARAMETER SELECT screen content 238 displayed, a help switchactivation may cause context-sensitive help information screen content244 to be displayed on the display device. As shown, the followingnarrative is an example of what may be displayed: “A PARAMETER SELECTscreen is displayed with wheelchair status information and menuselections for FORWARD SPEED, FWD ACCELERATION, FWD BRAKING, REVERSESPEED, REV ACCELERATION, REV BRAKING, TURN SPEED, TURN ACCELERATION,TURN DECELERATION, TREMOR DAMPENING, POWER LEVEL, and INPUT TYPE. Thecurrent value for each parameter is shown. The FORWARD SPEED item iscurrently active. A “select” activation will cause a FORWARD SPEEDscreen to be displayed for adjustment of the current parameter value.The screen navigation control may be used to move to an alternate menuitem.”

With reference to FIG. 17, an exemplary sequence 245 is provided withnormal screen content and help information content activation whenFORWARD SPEED screen content 246 is displayed on a display device. TheFORWARD SPEED screen content 246 may include multiple text objectsproviding status information and parameter adjustment. Morespecifically, the text objects providing status information may includea current mode text object 247, current drive parameter text object 248(e.g., FORWARD SPEED), current drive number text object 249, and currentparameter value text object 250 (e.g., 90%). The text objects providingparameter adjustment may include a decrease parameter text object 251(e.g., LESS) and an increase parameter text object 252 (e.g., MORE).

The FORWARD SPEED screen content 246 allows a user to set/modify thecurrent value of the forward speed programmable parameter. The forwardspeed programmable parameter, for example, is a “range” parameter. Inother words, it can be set to values between minimum and maximum limits(inclusive or exclusive) in predetermined increments via MORE or LESSactivations. These MORE or LESS activations, for example, can beaccomplished by moving a joystick control (e.g., 128 (FIG. 7)) forwardfor an up (i.e., MORE) activation or backward for a down (i.e., LESS)activation. In another embodiment, the MORE or LESS activations, forexample, can be accomplished using up and down direction switches (e.g.,168, 170 (FIG. 10)), respectively. The decrease parameter and increaseparameter text objects 251, 252, for example, use of a pointer or may behighlighted to reflect whether the last adjustment to the displayedparameter value was an increase or a decrease. As shown, the increaseparameter text object 252 (e.g., MORE) in the FORWARD SPEED screen 232is highlighted in bold. In additional embodiments, use of a pointer orany suitable type of highlighting may be used. In response to MORE orLESS activations, for example, a status bar 253 and the currentparameter value text object 250 are updated incrementally for eachactivation. For example, each activation may adjust the parameter valueby five percent and add or remove a segment from the status bar.

With the FORWARD SPEED screen content 246 display, a help switchactivation may cause context-sensitive help information screen content254 to be displayed on the display device. As shown, the followingnarrative is an example of what may be displayed: “A FORWARD SPEEDscreen is displayed with parameter status information for Drive 1 (D1)and selections for increasing or decreasing the parameter value. Thecurrent value for the FORWARD SPEED parameter is 90%. An up activationon the direction control switch will increase the parameter value. Adown activation on the direction control switch will decrease theparameter value. A “save” activation will set the current value for theparameter to the displayed value.”

With reference to FIG. 18, an exemplary sequence 255 is provided withnormal screen content and help information content after a help switchactivation when INPUT TYPE screen content 256 is displayed on a displaydevice. The INPUT TYPE screen content 256 may include multiple textobjects providing status information and menu selections for parameteradjustment. More specifically, the text objects providing statusinformation may include a current mode text object 257, current driveparameter text object 258 (e.g., INPUT TYPE), current drive number textobject 259, and current parameter value text object 260 (e.g., PSF). Thetext objects providing menu selections may include an MPJ text object261, a PSR text object 262, and additional selections related to othermodels of system controllers.

The INPUT TYPE screen content 256 allows a user to set/modify thecurrent setting for the input type programmable parameter. The inputtype programmable parameter, for example, is a “choice” parameter. Inother words, it can be set to any choice within a list of choices. Thelist of choices may be arranged in a menu as shown in FIG. 18. Forexample, as shown, the menu selections may include MPJ for multi-purposejoystick system controller, PSR for personalized switch rear-mountjoystick system controller, PSF for personalized switch forward-mountjoystick system controller, and DISP for display system controller. Themenu selections can be navigated in the same manner as described abovefor FIG. 13.

With the INPUT TYPE screen content 256 display, a help switch activationmay cause context-sensitive help information screen content 263 to bedisplayed on the display device. As shown, the following narrative is anexample of what may be displayed: “An INPUT TYPE screen is displayedwith parameter status information for Drive 1 (D1) and menu selectionswith a list of choices for the parameter value. The current value forthe INPUT TYPE parameter is PSF. The current selection for the INPUTTYPE parameter is MPJ. An up activation on the direction control switchwill change the current selection to DISP. A down activation on thedirection control switch will change the current selection to PSR. A“save” activation will set the current value for the parameter to thecurrent selection.”

With reference to FIG. 19, an exemplary programming mode menu hierarchy264 for setting or modifying a programmable parameter associated withoperation of a power driven wheelchair begins with a main menu 266. Asimilar embodiment of the main menu 266 is also depicted in FIG. 13 anddescribed above in more detail. An advanced menu 268 may be selectedfrom the main menu 266. A similar embodiment of the advanced menu 268 isdescribed above in more detail with reference to FIG. 14. Performanceadjust 270 may be selected after from the advanced menu 268. A similarembodiment of the performance adjust 270 is described above in moredetail with reference to FIG. 16.

A standard programs menu 272 may be selected from the advanced menu 268.An SD card menu 274 may also be selected from the advanced menu 254.Additional menus or items, such as a drive pgrm (program) item 276, astore (drive program) to SD card item 278, a read (drive program) fromSD card item 280, a system item 282, a store (system) to SD card item284, and a read (system) from SD card item 286 may be selected withinthe hierarchy of the SD card menu 274. In other embodiments, the SD cardmenu 274 may be referred to as a removable memory card menu or aportable storage medium menu. Additional menus or lists, such as adiagnostics menu 288, a powered seating menu 290, and a calibrationsmenu 292 may also be selected from the advanced menu 268.

With reference to FIG. 20, an exemplary info monitor process 300associated with providing context-sensitive help on a display deviceassociated with a power driven wheelchair begins at 302 where theprocess starts. At 304, the process detects activation of an info switch(e.g., 124 (FIG. 7)). In another embodiment, the process mayperiodically check the condition of the info switch.

If the info switch was activated, for example, a security check may beperformed prior to displaying context-sensitive help (306). Thissecurity check is optional and not required, particularly in regard tocontext-sensitive help functions. It is described here because incertain applications users, attendants, and technicians may havedifferent privileges with regard to operation and support of the powerdriven wheelchair. A security check facilitates limiting access to oneor more features provided in the power driven wheelchair.Context-sensitive help may be provided for features that do not requirea security check as well as those features that do require a securitycheck.

In one embodiment, the security check, for example, may include ahardware or software key associated with insertion of an appropriateportable storage medium (e.g., 86 (FIG. 3)), for example, in a removablememory card slot (e.g., 144 (FIG. 8)) of a system controller (e.g., 140(FIG. 8)). In another embodiment, the security check, for example, mayinclude a hardware or software key associated with connection of theprogrammer (e.g., 60 (FIG. 2)) to the system controller (e.g., 32 (FIG.2)). If the programmer is being used, the security check may include akey status signal transmitted by the programmer to the systemcontroller.

If the security check passes at 308, information associated with acurrent display screen is retrieved in 310. For example, current modeand drive selections, current menu or icon selections, or current storedvalues or current displayed values for selected programmable parameters.In various embodiments, various individual or combinations ofinformation elements associated with the current display screen may beretrieved. At 312, context-sensitive help information is selected from acollection of help information based at least in part on the currentdisplay information retrieved. Next, the identified context-sensitivehelp information is constructed into a narrative message form anddisplayed in a display screen. In another embodiment, thecontext-sensitive help information may be displayed in a window ordialog box on the display.

At 316, the process, for example, detects a select activation. Forexample, a select activation may be provided by moving a joystickcontrol (e.g., 128 (FIG. 7)) to the right or by pressing a select switch(e.g., 176 (FIG. 10)). In another embodiment, the process mayperiodically check the condition of any component that may provide aselect activation. If a select activation was detected, for example, themessage (e.g., context-sensitive help message) may be cleared from thedisplay. In other words, for example, the display may be returned to thecondition it was in prior to the last info activation. At this stage,the info monitor process is repeated 320 so that another info activationcan be detected.

If the security check does not pass at 308, the process advances to 322to determine if a predetermined timeout period has expired. If thetimeout period is not expired, the process returns to 308 to determineif the security check passed. If the timeout period is expired at 322, asecurity error message may be displayed (324) and the process advancesto 316, for example, to wait for the error message to be cleared by aselect activation. The various aspects of FIG. 20 described above may beautomated, semi-automated, or manual and may be implemented throughhardware, software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

With reference to FIG. 21, an exemplary menu navigation sub-process 340associated with setting or modifying a programmable parameter begins at342 where the sub-process starts. At 344, the process may detect an upactivation. If an up activation is not detected, the process does notadvance beyond 344. For example, moving a joystick control (e.g., 128(FIG. 7)) forward or pressing an up direction switch (e.g., 168 (FIG.10)) may provide an up activation. If an up activation is detected, themenu item above the current menu item may be selected and highlighted toindicate the newly selected menu item (346). The previously highlightedmenu item may be returned to normal text. Next, at 348, the menunavigation sub-process may be repeated.

At 350, the process may detect a previous menu activation. If a previousmenu activation is not detected, the process does not advance beyond350. For example, moving a joystick control (e.g., 128 (FIG. 7)) to theleft or pressing a menu/left direction switch (e.g., 172 (FIG. 10)) mayprovide an previous menu activation. If a previous menu activation isdetected, the previous menu in a menu hierarchy (e.g., 264 (FIG. 19))may be displayed (352), unless, for example, the current menu is themain menu. Next, at 348, the menu navigation sub-process may be repeatedwith respect to the previous menu.

At 354, the process detects a down activation. If a down activation isnot detected, the process does not advance beyond 354. For example,moving a joystick control (e.g., 128 (FIG. 7)) backward or pressing adown direction switch (e.g., 170 (FIG. 10)) may provide a downactivation. If a down activation is detected, the menu item below thecurrent menu item may be selected and highlighted to indicate the newlyselected menu item (356). The previously highlighted menu item may bereturned to normal text. Next, at 348, the menu navigation sub-processmay be repeated.

At 358, the process detects a select activation. If a select activationis not detected, the process does not advance beyond 358. For example,moving a joystick control (e.g., 128 (FIG. 7)) to the right or pressinga select switch (e.g., 176 (FIG. 10)) may provide a select activation.If a select activation is detected, the menu navigation sub-process maybe ended and a menu item selection handler sub-process may be started todetermine if the selection leads, for example, to a lower level menu orto a screen to set/modify a programmable parameter.

In another embodiment, the menu navigation sub-process 340 mayperiodically check the condition of the corresponding componentsassociated with an up activation, previous menu activation, downactivation, and select activation in a loop to determine ifcorresponding activations occur. The various aspects of FIG. 21described above may be automated, semi-automated, or manual and may beimplemented through hardware, software, firmware, or combinationsthereof.

With reference to FIG. 22, an exemplary set/modify parameter handlersub-process 400 associated with setting or modifying a programmableparameter begins at 402 where the sub-process starts. At 404, theprocess may detect an up activation. If an up activation is notdetected, the process does not advance beyond 404. If an up activationis detected, the parameter value choice above the current parametervalue choice may be selected and highlighted to indicate the newlyselected parameter value from a list of parameter value choices (i.e.,when the selected programmable parameter is a “choice” parameter) (406).Alternatively, when the selected programmable parameter is a “range”parameter, if an up activation is detected, the selected parameter valuemay be increased to the next predetermined higher value within the rangeof values for the corresponding programmable parameter (406). For the“range” parameter adjustment, a MORE screen object may be highlighted toindicate the last adjustment made to the selected programmable parameterwas based on an up activation. Next, at 408, the set/modify parameterhandler sub-process may be repeated.

At 410, the process may detect a save activation. If a save activationis not detected, the process does not advance beyond 410. For example,moving a joystick control (e.g., 128 (FIG. 7)) to the right or pressinga save switch (e.g., 178 (FIG. 10)) may provide a save activation. If asave activation is detected, the new parameter value may be stored asthe current parameter value for the selected programmable parameter ofthe currently selected drive (412). At 414, the set/modify parameterdisplay may be updated with the new current parameter value for theselected programmable parameter of the currently selected drive. Next,at 408, the set/modify parameter handler sub-process may be repeated.

At 416, the process may detect a down activation. If a down activationis not detected, the process does not advance beyond 416. If an downactivation is detected, the parameter value choice below the currentparameter value choice may be selected and highlighted to indicate thenewly selected parameter value from the list of parameter value choices(i.e., when the selected programmable parameter is a “choice” parameter)(406). Alternatively, when the selected programmable parameter is a“range” parameter, if a down activation is detected, the selectedparameter value may be decreased to the next predetermined lower valuewithin the range of values for the corresponding programmable parameter(406). For the “range” parameter adjustment, a LESS screen object may behighlighted to indicate the last adjustment made to the selectedprogrammable parameter was based on a down activation. Next, at 408, theset/modify parameter handler sub-process may be repeated.

At 420, the process detects a previous menu activation. If a previousmenu activation is not detected, the process does not advance beyond420. If a previous menu activation is detected, the previous menu in amenu hierarchy (e.g., 264 (FIG. 19)) may be displayed (422), unless, forexample, the current menu is the main menu. Next, at 424, the set/modifyparameter handler sub-process may be ended and a menu navigationsub-process (see FIG. 21) may be started.

In another embodiment, set/modify parameter handler sub-process 400 mayperiodically check the condition of the corresponding componentsassociated with an up activation, save activation, down activation, andprevious menu activation in a loop to determine if correspondingactivations occur. The various aspects of FIG. 22 described above may beautomated, semi-automated, or manual and may be implemented throughhardware, software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

With reference to FIG. 23, an exemplary process 500 for providing helpinformation on a display device associated with a power drivenwheelchair begins at 502 where normal screen content displayed on thedisplay device is updated during operation or support of the powerdriven wheelchair. At 504, the process determines if a first inputdevice was selectively activated. Next, in response to detection of thefirst input device activation, help information content is selected froma collection of help information (506). The selected help informationcontent being contextually related to the normal screen contentdisplayed on the display device. At 508, the contextually-related helpinformation content is displayed on the display device. At this point,the process may return to 502 to continue displaying normal screencontent on the display device. At 504, if activation of the first inputdevice is not detected, the process also may return to 502.

In another embodiment, the normal screen content, during at least aportion of the operation or support, may include one or more screenobjects. In this embodiment, the process may also detect selectiveactivation of a second input device. In response to detection of thesecond input device activation, a first screen object from the one ormore screen objects may be designated as active within the normal screencontent. In this embodiment, the selected help information content mayalso be contextually related to the first screen object within thenormal screen content displayed on the display device.

In another embodiment, the one or more screen objects may include, forexample, one or more of a menu item, an active text object, a check box,an icon, a control button, or a radio button. In still anotherembodiment, the contextually-related help information content may bedisplayed on the display device in a full screen view, a window, or adialog box.

In another embodiment, the contextually-related help information contentmay be retrieved from a portable storage medium via a storage mediuminterface associated with the power driven wheelchair. In thisembodiment, the portable storage medium may include a removable memorydevice that is releasably received by the storage medium interface.Moreover, the removable memory device may store the collection of helpinformation. In various embodiments, the removable memory device mayinclude an SD card, a CF card, a flash memory pen drive, a memory stick,a microdrive, an MMC, an SM card, an xD picture card, or a SIM card. Thevarious aspects of FIG. 23 described above may be automated,semi-automated, or manual and may be implemented through hardware,software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

With reference to FIG. 24, an exemplary process 550 for providing helpinformation on a display device associated with a power drivenwheelchair begins at 552 where normal screen content displayed on thedisplay device is updated during operation or support of the powerdriven wheelchair. In this embodiment, the normal screen content, duringat least a portion of the operation or support, may include one or morescreen objects. At 554, the process determines if a screen navigationcontrol was selectively activated. Next, in response to detection of thescreen navigation control activation, a first screen object from the oneor more screen objects is designated as active within the normal screencontent (556). At 558, the process determines if a help switch wasselectively activated. Next, in response to detection of the help switchactivation, help information content is selected from a collection ofhelp information (560). The selected help information content beingcontextually related to the active screen object within the normalscreen content displayed on the display device. At 562, thecontextually-related help information content is displayed on thedisplay device. At this point, the process may return to 552 to continuedisplaying normal screen content on the display device. At 554, ifactivation of the screen navigation control is not detected, the processalso may return to 552. Likewise, at 558, if activation of the helpswitch is not detected, the process also may return to 552.

In another embodiment, the screen navigation control may include atleast one of a right activation, a down activation, an up activation, ora left activation. In still another embodiment, the one or more screenobjects may include one or more of a menu item, an active text object, acheck box, an icon, a control button, or a radio button. In yet anotherembodiment, the process may include displaying the contextually-relatedhelp information content on the display device in a full screen view, awindow, or a dialog box.

In still yet another embodiment, the process may include retrieving thecontextually-related help information content from a removable memorydevice via a storage medium interface associated with the power drivenwheelchair. In this embodiment, the removable memory device may bereleasably received by the storage medium interface and may store thecollection of help information. Moreover, the removable memory devicemay include an SD card, a CF card, a flash memory pen drive, a memorystick, a microdrive, an MMC, an SM card, an xD picture card, or a SIMcard. The various aspects of FIG. 24 described above may be automated,semi-automated, or manual and may be implemented through hardware,software, firmware, or combinations thereof.

With reference to FIG. 25, an apparatus 600 associated with a powerdriven wheelchair may include a display device 602, a first input device604, a microcontroller 606, screen content 608, a collection of helpinformation 610, and a second input device 612. The display device 602may selectively display screen content during operation or support ofthe power driven wheelchair. The first input device 604 may beselectively activated by, for example, a user, an attendant, or atechnician. The microcontroller 606 may be in operative communicationwith the display device and the first input device. The microcontroller606 may control the screen content 608 displayed on the display device602 during the operation or support and detects activation of the firstinput device 604. In response to detection of the first input deviceactivation, the microcontroller 606 may select help information contentfrom a collection of help information 610. The selected help informationcontent may be contextually related to the screen content 608 displayedon the display device. Additionally, the microcontroller 606 may controldisplay of the contextually-related help information content on thedisplay device 602.

In another embodiment, the screen content 608, during at least a portionof the operation or support, may include one or more screen objects. Inthe embodiment, the apparatus 600 may include the second input device612 for selective activation. The second input device 612 may be incommunication with the microcontroller 606. The microcontroller 606 maydetect selective activation of the second input device 612 and, inresponse to detection of the second input device activation, may controldesignation of a first screen object from the one or more screen objectsas active within the screen content 608. In this embodiment, theselected help information content may be contextually related to thefirst screen object within the screen content 608 displayed on thedisplay device 602. In still another embodiment, the one or more screenobjects may include one or more of a menu item, an active text object, acheck box, an icon, a control button, or a radio button. In yet anotherembodiment, the contextually-related help information content may bedisplayed on the display device in a full screen view, a window, or adialog box.

In another embodiment, the apparatus 600 may also include a storagemedium interface 72 (FIG. 3), 98 (FIG. 4) in operative communicationwith the microcontroller 606 and a portable storage medium 86 (FIG. 3),106 (FIG. 4) in operative communication with the storage mediuminterface and storing the collection of help information 610. In stillanother embodiment, the portable storage medium may includes a removablememory device that is releasably received by the storage mediuminterface, the removable memory device storing the collection of helpinformation 610. The removable memory device may include a SD card, a CFcard, a flash memory pen drive, a memory stick, a microdrive, an MMC, anSM card, an xD picture card, or a SIM card. The various aspects of FIG.25 described above may be automated, semi-automated, or manual and maybe implemented through hardware, software, firmware, or combinationsthereof.

While the invention is described herein in conjunction with one or moreexemplary embodiments, it is evident that many alternatives,modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in theart. Accordingly, exemplary embodiments in the preceding description areintended to be illustrative, rather than limiting, of the spirit andscope of the invention. More specifically, it is intended that theinvention embrace all alternatives, modifications, and variations of theexemplary embodiments described herein that fall within the spirit andscope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof. Any element ina claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing aspecified function, or “step for” performing a specific function, is notto be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35U.S.C. §112, ¶ 6. In particular, the use of “step of” in the claimsherein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶ 6.

1. An apparatus associated with a power driven wheelchair, including: adisplay device to selectively display screen content during operation orsupport of the power driven wheelchair; a first input device forselective activation; and a microcontroller in operative communicationwith the display device and the first input device; wherein themicrocontroller controls the content displayed on the display deviceduring the operation or support and detects activation of the firstinput device; and wherein, in response to detection of the first inputdevice activation, the microcontroller selects help information contentfrom a collection of help information, the selected help informationcontent being contextually related to multiple screen objectssimultaneously displayed on the display device, and simultaneouslydisplays the contextually-related help information content for themultiple screen objects on the display device.
 2. The apparatus of claim1 further including: a second input device for selective activation incommunication with the microcontroller; wherein the microcontrollerdetects selective activation of the second input device and, in responseto detection of the second input device activation, controls designationof a first screen object from the multiple screen objects simultaneouslydisplayed as active within the screen content; and wherein the selectedhelp information content is contextually related to the first screenobject within the screen content displayed on the display device.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein the screen objects include a menu item, anactive text object, a check box, an icon, a control button, or a radiobutton.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the contextually-relatedhelp information content is displayed on the display device in a fullscreen view, a window, or a dialog box.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1wherein the multiple screen objects comprise objects associated with anoperation mode of a power driven wheelchair or a support mode of a powerdriven wheelchair.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, further including: astorage medium interface in operative communication with themicrocontroller; and a portable storage medium in operativecommunication with the storage medium interface and storing thecollection of help information.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein theportable storage medium includes a removable memory device that isreleasably received by the storage medium interface, the removablememory device storing the collection of help information.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 7 wherein the removable memory device includes asecure digital card, a compact flash card, a flash memory pen drive, amemory stick, a microdrive, a multimedia memory card, a smart mediacard, an xD picture card, or a subscriber identity module card.
 9. Amethod for providing help information on a display device associatedwith a power driven wheelchair, including: a) displaying content on thedisplay device during operation or support of the power drivenwheelchair; b) detecting selective activation of a first input device;c) in response to detection of the first input device activation,selecting help information content from a collection of helpinformation, the selected help information content being contextuallyrelated to multiple screen objects simultaneously displayed on thedisplay device and associated with the operation or support of the powerdriven wheelchair; and d) simultaneously displaying thecontextually-related help information content for the multiple screenobjects on the display device.
 10. The method of claim 9, furtherincluding: e) detecting selective activation of a second input device;and f) in response to detection of the second input device activation,designating a first screen object from the multiple screen objectssimultaneously displayed as active within the screen content; whereinthe selected help information content is contextually related to thefirst screen object within the screen content displayed on the displaydevice.
 11. The method of claim 9 wherein the screen objects include amenu item, an active text object, a check box, an icon, a controlbutton, or a radio button.
 12. The method of claim 9, further including:e) displaying the contextually-related help information content on thedisplay device in a full screen view, a window, or a dialog box.
 13. Themethod of claim 9, further including: f) retrieving thecontextually-related help information content from a portable storagemedium via a storage medium interface associated with the power drivenwheelchair.
 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the portable storagemedium includes a removable memory device that is releasably received bythe storage medium interface, the removable memory device storing thecollection of help information.
 15. The method of claim 14 wherein theremovable memory device includes a secure digital card, a compact flashcard, a flash memory pen drive, a memory stick, a microdrive, amultimedia memory card, a smart media card, an xD picture card, or asubscriber identity module card.
 16. A method for providing helpinformation on a display device associated with a power drivenwheelchair, including: a) displaying content on the display deviceduring operation or support of the power driven wheelchair, the contentdisplayed during at least a portion of the operation or supportincluding multiple screen objects simultaneously displayed; b) detectingactivation of a screen navigation control; c) in response to detectionof the screen navigation control activation, designating a first screenobject from the multiple screen objects simultaneously displayed asactive within the content; d) detecting selective activation of a helpswitch; e) in response to detection of the help switch activation,selecting help information content from a collection of helpinformation, the selected help information content being contextuallyrelated to the active screen object and the content of the multiplescreen objects simultaneously displayed on the display device andassociated with the operation or support of the power driven wheelchair;and f) displaying the contextually-related help information content onthe display device.
 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the screennavigation control includes at least one of a right activation, a downactivation, an up activation, or a left activation.
 18. The method ofclaim 16 wherein the screen objects include a menu item, an active textobject, a check box, an icon, a control button, or a radio button. 19.The method of claim 16, further including: g) displaying thecontextually-related help information content on the display device in afull screen view, a window, or a dialog box.
 20. The method of claim 16,further including: g) retrieving the contextually-related helpinformation content from a removable memory device via a storage mediuminterface associated with the power driven wheelchair, the removablememory device being releasably received by the storage medium interfaceand storing the collection of help information.
 21. The method of claim20 wherein the removable memory device includes a secure digital card, acompact flash card, a flash memory pen drive, a memory stick, amicrodrive, a multimedia memory card, a smart media card, an xD picturecard, or a subscriber identity module card.
 22. An apparatus associatedwith a power driven wheelchair, including: a display device toselectively display screen content during operation or support of thepower driven wheelchair; a first input device for selective activation;and a microcontroller in operative communication with the display deviceand the first input device; wherein the microcontroller includes logicto control the screen content displayed on the display device during theoperation or support and detects activation of the first input device;and wherein, in response to detection of the first input deviceactivation, the microcontroller executes logic for: retrieving thecurrent screen content, wherein the current screen content includesmultiple screen objects; selecting multiple help information contentfrom a collection of help information, the selected multiple helpinformation content being contextually related to the multiple screenobjects simultaneously displayed on the display device; combining theselected multiple help information for the multiple screen objects toconstruct a help message; and displaying the help message.
 23. Anapparatus associated with a power driven wheelchair, including: adisplay device to selectively display screen content during operation orsupport of the power driven wheelchair; a first input device forselective activation; and a microcontroller in operative communicationwith the display device and the first input device; wherein themicrocontroller includes logic to control the screen content displayedon the display device during the operation or support and detectsactivation of the first input device; and wherein, in response todetection of the first input device activation, the microcontrollerexecutes logic for: retrieving the current screen content; selectinghelp information content from a collection of help information, theselected help information content being contextually related to thescreen content displayed on the display device and indicative of howspecific items of the screen content are currently being used; combiningthe selected help information and the current screen content toconstruct a help message; and displaying the help message.
 24. Theapparatus of claim 23 wherein in response to detection of the firstinput device activation, the microcontroller further executes logic for:retrieving the current screen content, wherein the current screencontent includes multiple screen objects; selecting multiple helpinformation content from the collection of help information, theselected multiple help information content being contextually related tothe multiple screen objects simultaneously displayed on the displaydevice; and combining the selected multiple help information for themultiple screen objects to construct the help message.
 25. A method forproviding help information on a display device associated with a powerdriven wheelchair, including: a) displaying screen content on thedisplay device during operation or support of the power drivenwheelchair; b) detecting selective activation of a first input device;c) in response to detection of the first input device activation;retrieving the current screen content, wherein the current screencontent includes multiple screen objects; selecting multiple helpinformation content from a collection of help information, the selectedmultiple help information content being contextually related to themultiple screen objects simultaneously displayed on the display device;and combining the selected multiple help information for the multiplescreen objects to construct a help message; and d) displaying thecontextually-related help message on the display device.